After island-hopping across continents and exploring over 30 islands, I’ve discovered that not all islands are created equal.
Some offer perfect beaches, others rich culture and history, while a select few deliver experiences that stick with you long after returning home.
The 10 Most Impressive Islands That I Have Visited
Here are the destinations that earned a spot on my must-visit list.
1. Santorini, Greece
Santorini goes far beyond its Instagram-famous blue domes and whitewashed buildings.
The island offers volcanic beaches, world-renowned wineries, and some of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic cliff-top villages.
Explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, sample local wines overlooking the caldera, or catch the sunset from Oia’s castle ruins.
Tip: I visited Santorini in September and I think it is one of the reasons that I loved the island so much – (avoid peak season!).
2. Bali, Indonesia
The Island of the Gods combines stunning beaches, ancient Hindu temples, and emerald rice terraces with a rich cultural heritage.
Explore Uluwatu’s cliffside temple, trek the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces, or catch sunrise from Mount Batur.
You can surf in Canggu, find zen in Ubud’s wellness retreats, and experience traditional village life all on one island.
3. Miyajima, Japan
Famous for the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima offers a uniquely Japanese island experience.
Watch the torii gate transform with the tides, encounter friendly deer roaming freely around the island, and sample fresh oysters – a local specialty.
4. Capri, Italy
This glamorous island in the Bay of Naples has attracted visitors since Roman times.
Take a boat tour through the Blue Grotto, ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro for panoramic views, or explore upscale boutiques in Capri Town.
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5. Zakynthos, Greece
Home to the famous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos delivers some of Greece’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
The island features stunning limestone cliffs, hidden blue caves accessible by boat, and excellent opportunities to spot loggerhead sea turtles in Laganas Bay.
6. Koh Lipe, Thailand
This small island in the Andaman Sea delivers Thailand’s signature turquoise waters without the crowds of Phuket or Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Lipe offers world-class snorkeling at Coral Beach, vibrant street food along Walking Street, and sunsets that rival any in Southeast Asia.
7. Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos combines cosmopolitan energy with traditional Cycladic charm, working for both party enthusiasts and culture lovers.
Wander through Mykonos Town’s narrow cobblestone streets, relax on Paradise Beach’s golden sands, or take a day trip to the sacred island of Delos.
Top Tip: Similar to Santorini, I think you will enjoy the island much more outside of the crowded peak season. Find out why we love Mykonos in September here.
8. Rottnest Island, Australia
Located just off Perth’s coast, Rottnest Island offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear bays perfect for snorkeling, and the chance to meet quokkas.
Cycle around the car-free island, explore hidden coves like The Basin, or enjoy some of Australia’s clearest waters.
9. Gozo Island, Malta
Malta’s quieter sister island is perfect for boat tours that reveal dramatic cliffs where the famous Azure Window once stood.
Visit the salt flats, take day trips to the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters at nearby Comino, and dive the Blue Hole.
Explore the medieval Citadel in Victoria or enjoy the island’s slower pace.
10. Procida, Italy
Italy’s best-kept secret, Procida offers authentic island life without the tourist crowds of Capri or Ischia.
Wander through the colorful houses of Marina Corricella, or relax on the black volcanic sand of Spiaggia del Pozzo Vecchio.
Islands That Are Still on My Bucket List
While these 10 islands blew me away, there are several destinations that could easily shake up this ranking if I had visited them:
- Bora Bora, French Polynesia – Those iconic overwater bungalows and lagoons could easily claim a top 3 spot
- Maldives – Private island resorts and some of the world’s clearest waters might redefine luxury island experiences
- Palawan, Philippines – El Nido and the underground river could bring a whole new level of natural beauty
- Hawaii – The diversity from volcanic landscapes to world-class surf breaks across multiple islands
- Mallorca, Spain – Hidden coves, mountain villages, and Mediterranean charm without the crowds
Final Thoughts on The Best Islands I Have Visited
These 10 islands represent the cream of the crop from my years of island-hopping adventures.
While my bucket list keeps growing, these destinations have set the bar incredibly high for what an island experience should be.
Ready to plan your own island adventure? Check out these guides to find your perfect escape:
Vacation Travel Planning Guide:
**🚑 Do I need travel insurance?
100% YES! — Visitors need travel insurance for emergencies. I recommend SafetyWing.
**🚙💨 How to get around whilst traveling?
By Car: Renting a car through DiscoverCars gives you the freedom to explore charming hilltop towns and vineyards at your own pace.
By Train: For travel between major cities, trains are efficient and affordable – book tickets through Omio.
**📲 Will my phone work in another country?
Maybe — But you might come back to massive bill as it might be pricey. For the best experience, I recommend getting an SIM Card online before you travel.
**🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodation?
My go-to for hotels is Booking.com. However we often prefer a more authentic experience, and book apartments and homes through VRBO.
**✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights?
For finding cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
